The days when almost everyone had a personal relationship with his or her family doctor are long gone. We now have "primary care physicians" who refer us to specialists, or go to clinics to serve our medical needs. Yet the old fashioned family doctor did more than fix broken bones and prescribe medicines. He or she also acted in the capacity of "health coach"…a person who was mentor, counselor and teacher of health practices to a given community.

Our high tech, high priced medical system rarely allows general practitioners time for that kind of involvement with clients, so most people are on their own when it comes to designing a health and lifestyle program for their families. They are forced to rely on articles in popular magazines or television programs, many of which may offer conflicting information, some with little scientific backing. Few people have the time, energy or inclination to thoroughly research the many resources out there and make fully informed choices when they travel the supermarket or pharmacy isles.

If you are one of those people who is confused and frustrated with the conflicting information fed to consumers through the media, yet desires optimal health for yourself and family, you might consider hiring a health coach. Your health coach could be a doctor, if you can find one who is willing to take the time to work with you long term at a reasonable cost, as well as willing to be available for phone or in person consultations on a regular basis. He or she could also be an alternative health practitioner…someone with training and experience in nutrition, herbs, reflexology, or other healing modalities, as well as some counseling or psychology background. The latter is helpful because physical health is directly related to mental and emotional health.

You may wonder whether a health coach would really be worth the time and money spent. After all, we all pay lots of money to our medical insurance companies…medical professionals are supposed to keep us healthy, right? Wrong! Doctors and other medical personnel get paid when you are sick. If people didn’t get sick, they’d soon be out of a job! In contrast, a health coach is paid to educate you and help you motivate yourself. He or she is there to spur you on in your quest for greater health and well-being. Yet a good coach leaves you fully responsible for yourself. A good coach empowers you to take charge or your health. In the long run, staying healthy is very cost effective, and fewer co-payments to insurance companies are only the beginning. The true savings stem from increased energy and vitality for enjoying life, as well as less time spent fighting illness.

How often should you see your health coach? Initially you may want to set up monthly visits. That’s because he or she will have a lot to teach you in the beginning. You may need to develop new eating or lifestyle habits and a coach who has been through the trials and tribulations of those changes can be an excellent support system while you adjust to new ways. Sometimes the changes have to be introduced to a family slowly and a good coach can take you through the baby steps necessary to get family members weaned from fast food and junk food.